O'Keefe played his fourth Test in the win over Pakistan in
Sydney, taking four wickets as Australia sealed a 3-0 series
victory.

The 32-year-old was considered among the spin options to tour
India in February and March.

But O'Keefe seems certain to have a place after Cricket
Australia (CA) withdrew him from the rest of the Sydney Sixers' Big
Bash season.

"Post the Sri Lanka tour last year we have been in talks with
Cricket NSW and Steve on the best way for him to prepare for the
Qantas tour of India," CA executive general manager team
performance Pat Howard said.

"After his recent injuries, which have caused him to miss
Sheffield Shield matches this season, he has had a lot less
red-ball match practice than other players that are likely to tour
India and it is important he gets as much bowling in the format he
is going to play.

"His focus will now be on Grade and Futures League cricket
before likely being one of the first players to depart for Dubai in
late January."

Australia will play a four-Test series in India beginning in
Pune on February 23.